The Ultimate Guide to Watering Your Fiddle Leaf Fig

Watering is one of the most common challenges for even the most attentive plant parents—especially when it comes to members of the ficus family. The Fiddle Leaf Fig (Ficus lyrata) is particularly known for being finicky about its watering needs. Many first-time owners tend to overwater, which can lead to root rot and other issues. In response, others may become overly cautious and underwater their plant instead.

So how do you find the right balance? Let’s break it down.

How to Tell How Much Water your Fiddle Needs

Fiddle Leaf Figs are good communicators—if you know how to read their signs. Their leaves and soil offer key clues about whether you’re watering too much or too little. With time and observation, you’ll become more confident in understanding their needs.

Here are some questions you can ask yourself if you suspect you've been overwatering (the more common scenario):

Are you watering more than once a week?
Most Fiddle Leaf Figs don’t need water more than once a week. Depending on light, humidity, and temperature, they may need even less.

Are you checking the soil before watering?
Stick your finger about an inch into the soil. If it still feels damp from the last watering, hold off. Skipping this step can lead to chronic overwatering.

Are there dark spots or edges on the leaves?
Brown patches, especially in the center or along edges, are signs of overwatering and possibly root rot.

Is there a musty smell coming from the plant?
This could mean stagnant water is collecting at the bottom of the pot—check for pooled water and ensure good drainage.

Does your pot have a drainage hole?
Proper drainage is essential. If your plant is in a decorative pot, ensure it's either double-potted (with a nursery pot inside) or has a drainage hole to prevent water buildup.

Some signs on the other hand may inidicate you're not giving your plant enough water:

Are newer leaves smaller than older ones?
Small new growth often indicates the plant isn’t getting enough water, nutrients, or light.

Is your plant dropping leaves quickly?
Sudden leaf drop can be caused by dryness or low humidity. Also, check if it's placed near heating or AC vents.

Is the top layer of soil dry?
While Fiddle Leaf Figs prefer to dry slightly between waterings, the soil shouldn’t be completely dry for extended periods.

Do the leaf edges look crispy or crumpled?
Dry, brown edges moving inward are often a sign your plant is thirsty.

Are the leaves curling inward?
Severe underwatering can cause leaves to curl. A thorough watering or even a gentle shower may help your plant recover—though patience is key.

If you’re still unsure whether you’re over or underwatering, it’s generally safer to assume you’re overwatering. Most indoor plant issues come from too much love—especially in the form of water. Check in with your plant regularly, examine its leaves, and make small adjustments over time. Soon, you’ll understand its rhythm. Read our full article on telling the difference between overwatered and underwatered Fiddle Leaf Figs for more.

Sources

This article was written in collaboration with Claire Akin of the Fiddle Leaf Fig Plant Resource. Visit their website for more in-depth tips on Fiddle Leaf Fig care.